Bakhmut, G-7, F-16s and the latest Russia-Ukraine

First, the planes. Russia has warned of taking into account the latest US-NATO escalation, this of offering training to Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16s that will be supplied, in dribbles for now most likely, by NATO  member states. The real biggie? Given Xi Jinping's rumblings the past couple of weeks, how much will CHINA take this into account?

Second, the summit. Brazilian officials feel the G-7 members suckered the country's leaders in general and newly returned president Luiz Inacio Lula de Silva over Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's appearance at the summit in Japan. (Since Western media can't seem to figure out if his last name should be "-sky," "-skiy" or "-skyy" we're going to go back to just "-sky" even if that "sounds Russian.") Lula has backed Xi Jinping's peace talks proposal, and has also renewed his calls for an alternative to the dollar as a second global reserve currency.

Third, despite world-renowed economist James K. Galbraith showing just how little sanctions against Russia are actually working, the G-7 voted for more. Thanks, Warmonger Joe.

Fourth, Vloddy begged the G-7 (and G-20, at least Lula's Brazil and India) for more handouts. At that link, it appears he and Lula did NOT meet, and Chinese officials told Western countries to knock off East Asian warmongering.

Finally, the Wagner Group claims it has captured Bakhmut. As proof that Mark Ames is not a Russian secret agent, I present this tweet:

Russia fans for 8 months explaining why Ru couldn't take Bakhmut: "The plan isn't to win Bakhmut duh, it's to attrit AFU. Not taking Bakhmut *proves* we're winning!"
Russia fans on taking Bakhmut: "We won Bakhmut! Greatest battle victory in history! It proves we're winning!"

— Mark Ames (@MarkAmesExiled) May 20, 2023

And, there you go.

Ten days ago, Jeffrey Sachs called on Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to chart a more independent path from the US on the war. That obviously still isn't happening. Dear Canadians: PLEASE vote NDP at the next election!